FlavScents AInsights Entry for 3-methyl-2-butenal (CAS: 107-86-8)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Prenal
- IUPAC Name: 3-methylbut-2-enal
- CAS Number: 107-86-8
- FEMA Number: 2693
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 05.061
- Molecular Formula: C5H8O
- Molecular Weight: 84.12 g/mol
3-methyl-2-butenal, commonly known as prena, is an unsaturated aldehyde characterized by its alpha, beta-unsaturated carbonyl group. This functional group is significant for its reactivity and contribution to the compound's odor profile, often imparting a green, citrus-like aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
3-methyl-2-butenal is noted for its distinctive odor profile, which includes descriptors such as green, citrus, and aldehydic. The compound is often described as having a sharp, penetrating aroma with a hint of apple-like freshness. It serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh, zesty top note that can enhance the perception of naturalness in both flavors and fragrances.
The odor threshold for 3-methyl-2-butenal is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. Its role in sensory applications is typically as a modifier or enhancer, adding complexity and depth to the overall profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
3-methyl-2-butenal occurs naturally in various fruits and vegetables, including apples and tomatoes. It is also a product of the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that occurs during the cooking process, contributing to the flavor profile of cooked foods.
In the context of natural flavors, 3-methyl-2-butenal can be considered a naturally occurring compound, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients in flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
3-methyl-2-butenal is utilized in a variety of flavor applications, particularly in fruit and citrus flavor profiles. It is commonly used in beverages, confectionery, and baked goods to impart a fresh, zesty note that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. These values are industry-typical estimates, as precise usage can vary based on formulation requirements and regulatory guidelines.
The compound is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, although it may be susceptible to oxidation, which can alter its sensory characteristics.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, 3-methyl-2-butenal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green note that enhances the top notes of a fragrance composition. It is commonly used in citrus, floral, and green fragrance families, contributing to the overall freshness and vibrancy of the scent.
Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired effect and the complexity of the fragrance. Its volatility makes it a prominent top note, providing an initial burst of freshness that can set the tone for the fragrance experience.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
United States
- Flavor Use: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA.
- Fragrance Use: No specific restrictions noted.
European Union
- Flavor Use: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 05.061.
- Fragrance Use: Subject to general safety assessments.
United Kingdom
- Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards, with no significant divergence noted for this compound.
Asia
- Japan: Permitted for use in flavors and fragrances, subject to local regulations.
- China: Listed in the national inventory for flavor and fragrance use.
Latin America
- Brazil/MERCOSUR: Generally recognized for use in flavors and fragrances, with adherence to regional safety assessments.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
Oral Exposure
3-methyl-2-butenal is considered safe for use in food flavors at typical concentrations, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by relevant authorities. The compound's low usage levels in food products contribute to a favorable margin of safety.
Dermal Exposure
In fragrance applications, 3-methyl-2-butenal is not known to cause significant irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. However, formulators should adhere to IFRA guidelines to ensure consumer safety.
Inhalation Exposure
Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure is a consideration in occupational settings. Proper ventilation and handling procedures are recommended to minimize potential risks.
Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted in safety assessments.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
3-methyl-2-butenal is a valuable ingredient for its ability to impart freshness and complexity to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other citrus and green notes, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Formulators should be mindful of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering or harsh aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its impact can be diluted by other components.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 3-methyl-2-butenal is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, although some variability in usage levels may exist due to regional preferences and regulatory nuances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)
About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.
Generated 2026-09-18 09:31:34 GMT (p2)
